HERITAGE WALK - Rockhampton
Rockhampton was founded in 1855, soon after the pioneering Archer Brothers settled at Gracemere, 6.5 km to the west. It was named by Queensland's first Land Commissioner, Mr W. Wiseman, who was inspired by the rocks in the river. You will find some wonderful colonial architecture in Rockhampton. Take a walk down historic Quay Street and you will find yourself in one of the most impressive avenues of colonial architecture in Australia, with magnificent sandstone and brick buildings featuring delicate iron lacework. The National Trust and the Heritage Commission have listed many of these buildings, and the listing of Quay Street as an 'historic streetscape' is unique in Australia. Historic Customs House is located in Quay Street, and this houses the local Tourist Information Centre and Discovery Centre. You can learn about the history and early life in Rockhampton, history of the Customs House and discovery of gold in the area. Purchase a heritage walk booklet or do a self-drive tour past the heritage buildings. The Rockhampton Historical Society located in historic Burrough Chambers has a collection of local books, photographs and memorabilia. Another museum not to miss is the Central Queensland Military and Artefacts Museum which houses a collection of military and other memorabilia. Visit St Christopher's Chapel, a non-denominational chapel built during World War II by American Servicemen. The historic Archer Park Station and Steam Tram Museum houses the old Purrey steam tram, which was once the method of transport for residents in the city. Visit historic Glenmore Homestead for a bush dinner dance, or St Aubins Village herb garden and nursery for a light meal at the Tea House. The Rockhampton Heritage Village is located just north of the city and represents the period of 1850-1950 in a unique township consisting of original buildings and replicas. Fully restored horse drawn and motorised vehicles, steam engines and agricultural machinery are also on display. Step back in time and experience first hand the lifestyle of a bygone era. To go even further back into Australia's past, visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre. It is Australia's largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre, set on an ancient tribal site in about 30 acres of natural bushland. You can see first hand how the inhabitants of this country lived for thousands of years before the Europeans arrived.
